By Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services
LINCOLN, Neb. – Heating issuances for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) have been delayed due to the federal government shutdown, which was effective from Oct. 1 to Nov. 12, 2025.
Historically, LIHEAP heating funds are received by utility providers partnered with the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) by mid-November, which provide financial assistance to low-income households with heating costs.
“Although the shutdown has ended, funds for Federal Fiscal Year 2026 have not been received as of yet,” said Shannon Grotrian, Director of the Office of Economic Assistance. “In communicating with the federal government, the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) anticipates the funding release to occur by the end of November and is working as quickly as possible to meet this goal.”
DHHS cannot provide an estimated date of when heating issuances will become available, however, benefits will be distributed as soon as federal funds are received. LIHEAP crisis assistance funds will remain available for households with utility shut off notices. For assistance with this process, visit https://iserve.nebraska.gov.
DHHS staff remain available to accept and process applications, LIHEAP requests and reported changes. Applications may be submitted, and changes should continue to be reported.
Other resources may be available through 211 Nebraska. Please call 2-1-1 or visit the 211 Nebraska website at https://uwm211.org/nebraska-programs. 211 is a one-stop source of information for people in need of assistance. When reaching out to 211, they’ll assess the situation and then utilize an extensive, up-to-date database to find the best resources in an area.
For additional information and updates to LIHEAP, visit https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Energy-Assistance.aspx.